Ian Bell’s century against South Australia gave England a welcome lift after another difficult week as the tourists closed on 303 for six on day two of the three-day match at Adelaide Oval.

After England had lost the wickets of nightwatchman Matthew Hoggard and opener Alastair Cook to slide to 34 for three, Bell and Paul Collingwood shared a 178-run partnership to help England take a 56-run first-innings lead.

Ian Bell

Collingwood reached 80 but Bell particularly impressed with 132 before being caught by Darren Lehmann off Shaun Tait while Kevin Pietersen departed for 32.

England decided against declaring and went on to finish the day with a lead with Andrew Flintoff (six) and Geraint Jones (14) unbeaten.

England practised in the nets before play started, and Harmison did a series of stretching exercises but did not bowl.

He returned to the nets later for a 15-minute bowling session during which he worked up to a lively speed and did not appear to be inconvenienced by the strained left side that put him out of this match and had him in doubt for the first Test.

Harmison and England’s team management will be keen to learn how he feels when he cools down from the encouraging workout.

A spokesman said management was “pleased with the way he came through”.

Tait was forced off the field with what was only believed to be severe cramp.